Top 5 Cybersecurity Trends to Watch in 2023

Cybersecurity is a fast-paced industry in which cybercriminals and security providers compete to outwit each other. New and more complex threats are constantly emerging and with cybercrime on the rise, it's vital for organizations to stay ahead of the curve.

Here are 5 cybersecurity trends to watch in 2023.

1. Potential of AI and Machine Learning

In recent years, artificial intelligence and machine learning have grown in popularity in cybersecurity. AI and ML enable automated threat detection and improved security processes, making them effective tools in the fight against cyberattacks. With these technological advancements, companies can use AI and ML to detect and prevent threats proactively.

AI and machine learning can aid in the rapid and accurate analysis of large amounts of data, allowing for more effective threat detection and prevention. AI, for example, can detect malicious or suspicious network activity, such as increased traffic from a specific source or patterns in user behavior. Organizations can also identify anomalies and prioritize alerts that may indicate a potential breach by leveraging machine learning algorithms.

Furthermore, AI and machine learning (ML) can automate specific cybersecurity tasks such as patch management, malware detection, and compliance checks. Organizations can save time and resources that would otherwise be spent on manual processes.

2. Internet of Things and Cloud Security

The more organizations that adopt cloud computing and Internet of Things (IoT) technologies, the more essential proper cybersecurity measures become. And according to Gartner, there will be an estimated 43 billion IoT-connected devices in the world by the end of 2023. IoT devices, even though they do not often store sensitive data directly, can be utilized by attackers as gateways to devices that do store sensitive data.

To reduce opportunities for cybercrime, organizations should focus on establishing or updating related information security policies and procedures for connected devices. Updating inventories of their IoT-connected devices, whilst also monitoring and patching those devices more closely, will help secure those endpoints further and aid in managing vulnerabilities and incident response.

3. More Security for Remote & Hybrid Workers

As organizations continue to shift towards remote and hybrid working models, cybersecurity policies need to evolve to meet these new demands. Companies need to focus on the security challenges of distributed workforces such as identifying and mitigating new security vulnerabilities, improving systems, implementing security controls, and ensuring proper monitoring and documentation.

Educating remote and hybrid workers on the best cybersecurity practices and how to keep their devices safe will play a pivotal role.

4. Mobile is the New Target

Remote working has accelerated the growth of mobile and switching between a variety of mobile devices while using public Wi-Fi networks and remote collaboration tools is common behavior. As a result, mobile threats have continued to grow and evolve and with the upcoming rollout of 5G technologies, mobile security will be a hot topic in 2023.

Mobile threats for enterprises include:

Phishing: This attack is disguised as something legitimate like an email, sms, or application and often appears to come from a friend, a business you often work with (like a bank), etc. Once you activate the phish, various attacks can be launched.

OS Exploit: The most serious and impactful attack. OS exploits target old or vulnerable mobile device operating systems. Updated devices are more immune to attack but not completely safe and can still be vulnerable to zero day attacks.

Rogue Profile: This often comes in on the back of another app (like a VPN app) installing various escalated rights and permissions.

Bad Wi-Fi: A bad Wi-Fi, also called rogue Wi-Fi or rogue access point, looks like a legitimate Wi-Fi but is actually controlled by the attacker. Once a device connects to the bad Wi-Fi, the attacker can monitor and direct traffic at their discretion which often leads to an exploit being delivered to compromise the device.

Man in the Middle: Often abbreviated as MiTM, this attack inserts itself between the mobile device and the intended destination. The attack uses something familiar (like a website or online banking) as it sits in the middle with the user not knowing they are being attacked.

Malicious App: These are apps that often look like a normal app (like a flashlight app) but behind the scenes are stealing information.

Risky Apps: These apps are not necessarily malicious but have privacy and/or mobile app security issues as a result of how they were developed.

5. Creating a Security-Aware Culture

Humans will remain the primary point of entry for bad actors and companies need to build a culture of security. Cybersecurity can no longer be thought of as an issue for the IT department. Security training, no matter how tedious or redundant it may seem to be, must be implemented on a regular basis and across the organization to help reduce the risk of cyberattacks. Regular policy and procedure reviews should also be performed to ensure compliance with the latest security protocols.

Cybercriminals are always looking for new ways to target and attack individuals and organizations, which means the cybersecurity landscape will continue to grow and evolve. Monitoring trends and updating security defenses accordingly is essential.

If your organization needs help becoming cyber resilient in the coming year, contact us at info@vigilantasia.com.my for a free consultation or visit vigilantasia.com.my for more information.